Variety has indicated that the 93rd Academy Awards may be postponed. The award show is currently slated to air on February 28, 2021. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has delayed and altered theatrical releases in a number of ways.
“It’s likely they’ll be postponed,” one source stated.
This report comes just weeks after the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that they would be changing its qualifying criteria. Previously, films had to have a week long theatrical release in Los Angeles County to qualify for the awards show. This year, films that are released digitally may also qualify.
“I think everyone is sympathetic to the filmmakers’ plight and we’re here to support our members and the film community,” Academy President David Rubin said.
“It makes sense when we don’t really know what’s to come in terms of the availability of theatrical exhibition. We need to make allowances for this year only and during this time when theaters are not open so great film work can be seen and celebrated,” he added.
Rubin nor the Academy has commented on the possibility of a postponement. For the time being, the date remains unchanged on ABC’s calendar.
